Top Things to Do in Japan: 10 Best Activities
With its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Japan is full of diverse and unforgettable experiences. Whether it is admiring the iconic cherry blossoms, embarking on thrilling winter ski adventures, relaxing in soothing hot springs, or enjoying the artistry of a traditional tea ceremony, there is always plenty to do during a trip to Japan. For your better taste of this enchanting country, the top things to do in Japan are listed below.
- Admire the Sacred Mt. Fuji
- Enjoy the Spring Cherry Blossoms
- Capture the Night Flower of Fireworks
- Stroll With Stunning Fall Foliage
- Hike Through the Wooden Hill
- Unwind Winter Fun With Ice & Powder Snow
- Soak in Nature Hot Springs (Onsen)
- Sample the Authentic Japanese Flavor
- Night Sightseeing With Neo & Music
- Uncover the Cultural Side of Japan
Admire the Sacred Mt. Fuji
A view of Mt. Fuji is a must for first-timers visiting Japan, as it is one of the most iconic symbols of Japan. You can capture the sacred mountain from afar, such as the Arakurayama Sengen Park, a good photo spot to frame Mt. Fuji as well as the Chureito Pagoda.
Head to Lake Kawaguchi beneath the mountain, and enjoy a boat ride to the center, where the serene waters perfectly reflect the snow-capped peak.
For an up-close experience, consider visiting during summer to hike Mount Fuji yourself. Reaching the summit to witness the sunrise above a sea of clouds is an unforgettable reward for your efforts.
Enjoy the Spring Cherry Blossoms
For your spring journey, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is one of the top things to do in Japan, as the whole country is transformed into a pink wonderland. The peak flowering season, typically from late March to early April, is perfect for lively hanami celebrations. Or enjoy the serene beauty of early blossoms in the south or late blooms in the north for a more tranquil experience.
Top hanami spots include Ueno Park and Chidorigafuchi Moat in Tokyo or Mt. Yoshino in Nara. Relish a leisurely sakura picnic or take a scenic cruise along cherry-lined riverbanks. For a unique touch, don't miss a night stroll under illuminated cherry blossoms, with falling petals adding to the enchantment.
Capture the Night Flower of Fireworks
Hanabi (fireworks) is an icon of summer in Japan, usually accompanied by local events, stalls for street food, decorations, and games, as well as locals strolling in yukata. Join the grand hanabi taikai (fireworks festival) bustling with the high tension of summer and enjoy the "night flowers" that light up the sky.
Put on a yukata with your favorite pattern, and wander through the bustling streets before the main fireworks display. Pick up a handcrafted fox mask or decorative hairpin, join in traditional games like goldfish scooping or shooting air balloons, and savor classic festival foods like yakisoba (stir-fried noodles) and takoyaki (fried octopus balls). Don't forget sweet treats like apple candy or crepes, perfect to enjoy under the dazzling blooms of the fireworks.
Stroll With Stunning Fall Foliage
Gentle breezes rustle through whispering leaves, carrying hints of bitter bark and sweet chestnuts. Beneath the branches and through the canopy, sunlight filters softly, casting dappled shadows perfect for a leisurely stretch and a quiet yawn as you stroll along a colorful blanket of leaves, each step accompanied by a satisfying crunch.
An autumn stroll with stunning fall foliage is always the top recommended activity in Japan. Whether exploring city streets or temples adorned with golden leaves, or a lakeside or mountain walking tour to fully immerse yourself in splendid nature, with an unexpected encounter with some playful squirrels or Japanese macaques, or a momiji picnic as a break before the next journey.
Hike Through the Wooden Hill
With its mountainous landscapes and lush forests, Japan offers an abundance of excellent parks and hiking trails, making a leisurely hike one of the best ways to experience the country's natural beauty.
Explore the historic Nakasendo Trail, lined with traditional wooden buildings and cozy tea houses perfect for a short break, or venture into the mystical Kumano Kodo, winding through dense forests and sacred shrines, culminating in a breathtaking waterfall as the reward for your pilgrimage journey.
For the best experience, plan your hike during sunny days in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These seasons offer milder temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, along with stunning seasonal scenery to enhance your hiking adventure.
Unwind Winter Fun With Ice & Powder Snow
Skiing is a must-try experience in winter Japan, renowned for its exceptional powder snow that is dry and light, making it ideal for a perfect ski adventure with excellent trails and relaxing hot springs.
Hokkaido is home to some of the most popular ski resorts, including the world-famous Niseko United. Here, you can enjoy "Japow" and seamless ski-in and ski-out experiences. If you visit in February, don't miss the Sapporo Snow Festival for some surprising ice and snow sculptures.
For another winter wonderland, head to Nagano near Tokyo, where Hakuba Valley awaits. This ski destination offers more challenging tree trails for adventurous skiers, where you can also stop by Snow Monkey Park to see the adorable red-faced snow monkeys relaxing in steaming hot springs.
Soak in Nature Hot Springs (Onsen)
Hot spring bathing is a must-try activity in Japan, which is also a highlight of Japanese culture. For breathtaking views, consider an onsen hotel around Lake Kawaguchi, where you can relax in warm waters while admiring the majestic Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Alternatively, explore renowned hot spring towns like Hakone, Nozawa, or Ginzan, each offering a variety of mineral-rich waters to try, ranging from orange-hued baths to creamy white "milky soup", all designed to soothe and revitalize your body.
A yukata stroll around the town is another enjoyable part of the experience. Discover local delicacies and snacks to savor before dinner, or use the outing as a refreshing interlude before your next soak.
Sample the Authentic Japanese Flavor
Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast, featuring rice, miso soup, raw egg, natto (fermented soybeans), and grilled fish - perfect for energizing you for the day ahead.
Lunch brings even more variety of Japanese dishes. Stop by a street-side restaurant for a steaming bowl of ramen, crispy tonkatsu (pork cutlet) with tempura. Don't forget to sample street food favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), which make for satisfying snacks or desserts.
Dinner is the ideal time to indulge in Japan's culinary specialties. Visit a traditional ryoriya to experience the refined flavors of kaiseki cuisine, share a pot of sukiyaki (beef hot pot) with friends, or immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of an izakaya, with oden (hearty one-pot dishes) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) paired with sake or beer.
Night Sightseeing With Neo & Music
Japan's vibrant nightlife is also a must-experience. Start your night with a visit to Tokyo Tower just before sunset, an ideal spot to watch the city transform as it lights up with dazzling neon signs.
Afterward, drop by a cozy izakaya for some sweet sake under warm amber lights, or indulge in a high-end restaurant with sweeping views of the glittering cityscape and bustling traffic below.
If you're up for more adventure, dive into Japan's energetic nightlife hubs like Shibuya or Shinjuku. Go bar hopping under the glittering city lights, sing your heart out at karaoke, or immerse yourself in the lively entertainment of Kabukicho.
Uncover the Cultural Side of Japan
Draw an omikuji (fortune paper) during your shrines & temples hopping in Sensoji or Meiji Shingu, or follow the line to bow and pray for blessings from the deity. Experiencing Japanese culture is always fun, making it also one of the top things to do on your Japan itinerary.
Walk through the thousands of torii gates leading to the sacred Fushimi Inari Shrine, book the seats for Sumo wrestling, or put on a kimono in Kyoto's Gion district, where you can participate in a traditional tea ceremony with geisha and maiko.
For families and anime enthusiasts, there are also exciting samurai and ninja experiences with the true katana (Japanese sword), or diving into the cozy atmosphere in Akihabara, where you can take a glimpse of the otaku culture with maids, anime characters, underground lives, manga, and video games.
Fulfill Your Japan Tour With the Top Things & More
Japan, with its rich culture and stunning natural attractions, offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. The suggestions above are just a glimpse of our top recommendations for your trip. If you have any questions or need more inspiration, feel free to contact Odynovo at [email protected] to plan your ideal journey to Japan.
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